- The Crisafulli Government is backing new and improved tourism experiences across Queensland.
- The next round of the $80 million Tourism Icon Investments Fund – part of Destination 2045 - is now open.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland tourism with a record investment after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is backing the next generation of iconic tourism experiences, with applications now open for the second round of the $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund.
As part of the Crisafulli Government's record $1 billion investment in tourism, the fund is helping deliver Destination 2045 by growing the visitor economy, attracting private investment and strengthening Queensland's reputation as the Home of the Holiday.
The first round provided $25.5 million to support nine projects across Queensland, including the rejuvenation of the Big Pineapple, the expansion of BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort and new tourism experiences at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach, helping drive visitation, encourage longer stays and support local jobs and businesses.
Applicants must match government funding at a minimum, helping unlock new private investment and support the development of world-class experiences that give visitors more reasons to choose Queensland.
The recently handed down 2026–27 Budget locked in the continuation of the Crisafulli Government's record investment in tourism, restoring certainty to the industry after the former Labor Government planned to cut tourism funding by 95 per cent.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the fund was helping build the next generation of tourism experiences while delivering lasting economic benefits for Queensland communities.
"Queensland is the Home of the Holiday, and we're investing in the attractions and experiences that will keep visitors coming, staying longer and spending more in our communities," Minister Powell said.
"Tourism supports thousands of jobs across our State, and funds like this help ensure Queensland remains the destination of choice for Australian and international visitors.
"We're backing projects that showcase the very best of Queensland, attract new private investment and create opportunities for local businesses to grow.
"The success of the first round shows there's strong confidence in Queensland's tourism future and sends a clear message that Queensland is open for business.
"While the former Government Labor planned to cut tourism funding by 95 per cent, we're delivering record investment in the experiences and attractions that drive visitation, support jobs and strengthen our reputation as the Home of the Holiday."
Numinbah Escape, in the Numinbah Valley, was awarded $4 million in the first round of the Tourism Icons Investment Fund to support delivery of a world-class nature-based adventure destination that would include Australia's largest zipline tour, glamping tents, a tourist park and café.
Project developer David Taylor said the support received through the fund's first round was instrumental in advancing Numinbah Escape from concept to a project with real momentum.
"This support will help us deliver what will be a world-class ecotourism destination that showcases the extraordinary natural beauty of the Numinbah Valley in a sustainable way," Mr Taylor said.
"By combining low-impact accommodation with immersive outdoor adventure experiences, we're creating a destination that supports conservation outcomes, regional jobs and longer visitor stays.
"This investment has given us the confidence to deliver a project that will position Queensland as a leader in nature-based tourism and attract visitors seeking authentic, environmentally conscious experiences.
"We're excited about the opportunity to share this remarkable landscape with future generations while protecting the very values that make it so special."
Applications are now open, and will close on 10 August.
